Fort Mountain derives its name from an ancient 855-foot-long rock wall which stands on the highest point of the mountain. The mysterious wall is thought to have been built by Indians as fortification against other more hostile Indians or for ancient ceremonies. Situated in the Chattahoochee National Forest close to the Cohutta Wilderness area, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders will find some of the most beautiful trails in northern Georgia. Most wind through hardwood forest and blueberry thickets, occasionally crossing streams and providing spectacular vistas. During the summer, children will enjoy the sand beach located on a clear mountain lake, as well as miniature golf and pedal boat rental.

The East-West Bike Loop is rated by many as one of the most beautiful and challenging bike trails in the southeastern United States. Users travel from mountain ridge top to valley floor, through pine and scrub laurel thickets, upland hardwood and cove forests, by old mines, then waterfalls and rhododendrons along Hassler?s Mill Creek before returning up the mountain.

Trails

BIG ROCK TRAIL 0.5 mile loop. Rated moderate to difficult.

The Big Rock Nature Trail travels from the ridgeline near the lake down into a mountain hollow, then crosses a dividing ridge and returns up Gold Mine Creek passing several small cascades and waterfalls. Wild- flowers abound in spring.

GAHUTI TRAIL 8.8 miles. Rated difficult to strenuous.

The Gahuti Trail travels around the edge of the park, passing just below the summits of both Cohutta and Fort mountains. Ever changing, the trail is both beautiful and challenging in all seasons. Hikers should always be aware of changing weather. Four backcountry campsites are available for use by permit.

LAKE TRAIL1.2 mile loop. Rated easy.

The Lake Trail loops around Fort Mountain?s lake and can be accessed from the campgrounds, cottage areas, picnic area and picnic shelter #5, and the Big Rock Trail parking area. Trail is most accessible traveled clockwise. In this manner, users descend the 75 lineal feet 20% grade.

COMBINATION TRAILS:These trails are made by combining trails shown on the map.

The Upper Cabin Loop is hiked by using the Upper Cabin Access Trail to the Lake Trail, proceeding to the Goldmine Creek Trail and returning on the Gahuti Trail to the upper cottage area.

This combination of trails offers excellent vistas from the upper levels of the ridgeline and wonderful views of the lake and Goldmine Creek. The creek was named for early goldmining, with some of the old mining pits visible along the trail.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews

June 28great all around park by cheswim

lots to do, great place to take kids. lake with swimming and paddle boat rental. Very easy trail around lake and many other trails available. Usually some planned ranger activities available. clean restrooms and showers. been there several times

May 21If you like the Mountains by Carolyn Covington,GA

Great park. Clean bath houses. Level sites. Beautiful campground. Even camped during the rain and had a great time.

November 3Autumn Leaves were in full color

30 Oct 08 - 2 Nov 08-- The autumn leaves were in full color, most notable early morning and late afternoon. Overlooks were breath taking. As a bonus the view of the stars from 2,800 FT at 2:30-4:30 AM was fantastic! Had a great weekend!!!!